Broker Check
Richard J. Ross, CPA PFS

Richard J. Ross, CPA PFS

Financial Advisor

(405) 638-0395

rross@taxsmartinvest.com

I am a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensed in both Oklahoma and Texas, with a lifelong dedication to helping my clients with their financial future. My journey in the financial world has been extensive and diverse, covering public accounting, corporate finance, financial advisory, forensic accounting, and wealth management. This breadth of expertise allows me to provide a truly holistic approach to financial planning, helping my clients pursue financial success.

I laid the foundation for my career in accounting and financial services with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Southern Nazarene University. My professional journey began as an audit manager for the predecessor firm to Deloitte & Touche, where I honed my skills in financial reporting, compliance, risk management, and internal controls.

After gaining invaluable experience in public accounting, I transitioned into the corporate sector, dedicating 31.5 years to a rural electric generation and transmission cooperative. This role allowed me to expand my expertise in corporate finance, strategic planning, and financial operations, while developing a keen understanding of the financial challenges faced by both businesses and individuals. In 2006, I embarked on a new chapter by joining Avantax Investment Services and its predecessor companies as a financial advisor. This shift enabled me to blend my accounting background with investment and wealth management, providing comprehensive financial guidance that addresses not just tax and accounting matters, but also investment strategies, retirement planning, estate and legacy planning, risk management, and business advisory services.

Today, I adopt a holistic, client-centered approach to financial planning, working with individuals, families, and business owners to that every aspect of their financial life – from tax optimization to asset protection – is carefully planned and managed. To offer the highest level of expertise to my clients, I have earned multiple advanced certifications, including:

- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) - Licensed in Oklahoma and Texas
- AICPA Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) - Recognizing expertise in comprehensive financial planning
- Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF) - Specialized in forensic accounting and fraud prevention
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) - Expertise in fraud detection and investigation
- Certified Estate and Trust Specialist (CES) - Focused on estate planning and wealth transfer
- Certified Fund Specialist (CFS) - Proficient in investment analysis and portfolio strategies
- Certified Income Specialist (CIS) - Specializing in retirement income and cash flow planning
- Certified Annuity Specialist (CAS) - Expertise in annuity and insurance planning
- Global Chartered Management Accountant (GCMA) - Recognizing global expertise in management accounting and business strategy

I am also proud to be a member of the Forensic CPA Society (FCPA), further reinforcing my commitment to ethical and forensic accounting practices.

With decades of experience across multiple disciplines, I bring a broad and deep perspective to wealth management. My goal is to help clients build financial security with confidence, ensuring that their wealth is protected, optimized, and strategically planned for the future. Whether it's minimizing tax liabilities, safeguarding assets, planning for retirement, or preparing for business transitions, I am dedicated to providing solutions that are tailored, strategic, and forward-thinking. At the core of my practice is the belief that financial clarity leads to financial confidence. My mission is to ensure that every client has a clear, well-defined roadmap to achieve their financial goals – allowing them to focus on what matters most in life.